Autophagy, which is decreased in labouring fetal membranes, regulates IL-1β production via the inflammasome

Autophagy is decreased in fetal membranes after spontaneous labour and delivery, and PPROM. Inhibition of autophagy regulates the secretion of IL-1β via inflammasome activation. IL-1β is a major contributor to the pathophysiology of spontaneous preterm birth. Therefore activation of autophagy may be a potential therapeutic mechanism to delay or prevent infection-induced preterm birth.